3D-CT angiography of cerebral arteriovenous malformations

We studied 76 patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) using dynamic-CT with intravenous injection of contrast material and reconstructed three-dimensional images (3D-CT angiography). All patients received stereotactic radiotherapy (gamma-knife). We compared 3D-CT angiography with conventional angiography to determine the usefulness of this technique. 3D-CT angiography could be performed in conjunction with usual axial high-resolution CT without any additional scanning time and within 10-30 minutes for the overall study. Most niduses and drainers of AVMs were clearly visualized by 3D-CT angiography. 3D-reconstruction was very helpful in demonstrating the niduses, drainers, and three-dimensional structure of AVMs. Demonstrations of feeders were not remarkable. Dynamic CT was very helpful in dose planning for gamma-knife radiosurgery, because gamma-knife angiograms were limited in terms of angles, magnification, and establishing precise localizations using a head frame. 3D-CT added information on trails of drainers and was useful in reducing the volume of irradiation. 3D-CT angiography of cerebral AVMs could be performed routinely, and three-dimensional imaging was helpful in demonstrating the complex anatomy of cerebral AVMs. This technique was very helpful in planning gamma-knife radiosurgery.